After months of anticipation and extensive deliberations, the Uganda Cricket Association has made a decisive move in appointing a new head coach for the Cricket Cranes. Abhay Sharma has been announced as the successor to Laurence Mahatlane.
The quest for a new head coach commenced last October following the departure of Mahatlane, whose contract was not renewed. In the interim, Jackson Ogwang, Mahatlane’s assistant, took the reins. However, after an exhaustive search process involving thirteen candidates, Abhay Sharma emerged as the ideal choice, securing a three-year contract.
Sharma brings a wealth of experience to his new role, boasting nearly twenty years of coaching experience, including seven previous stints as a head coach. Notably, in 2019, he steered the India U19 team to victory in a Tri-Series against formidable opponents like England and Bangladesh. Additionally, Sharma has served as a fielding coach for both the Indian men’s and women’s national teams.
One of the key areas of focus for the Cricket Cranes has been their batting performance, which has often come under scrutiny. With Sharma’s expertise in fielding and batting, there is optimism that he can address this longstanding issue and elevate the team’s performance to new heights.
Sharma’s immediate priority will be leading the Cricket Cranes at the upcoming World Cup. While Ogwang made history by guiding the team to their maiden World Cup appearance last November, the mantle now falls on Sharma to make a lasting impact in the upcoming tournament in the West Indies.
